Beeds Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Beeds Lake Dam in Franklin, Iowa, stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of engineering and nature.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1937 by the US Department of the Interior, this earth dam on Spring Creek serves as both a recreational hotspot and a vital water resource for the region. With a height of 44 feet and a length of 1677 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 2850 acre-feet and a surface area of 130 acres, making it a significant player in the local water management system.
Managed by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Beeds Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite a fair condition assessment, its high hazard potential calls for ongoing risk management measures. The dam's spillway, with a width of 170 feet, helps regulate water levels, while its uncontrolled design poses challenges in times of high discharge. Steve King (R) represents the area in Congress, highlighting the importance of this infrastructure to the community.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, Beeds Lake Dam remains a critical structure for flood control and recreational activities. Its location in a picturesque setting near Hampton adds to its allure, attracting visitors and water resource enthusiasts alike. With a focus on sustainable water management and infrastructure resilience, Beeds Lake Dam stands as a beacon of innovation and adaptation in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
1677 |
Dam Height |
44 |
River Or Stream |
SPRING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
130 |
Drainage Area |
31.8 |
Nid Storage |
2850 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
44 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Iowa River Near Rowan
|
195cfs |
Winnebago River At Mason City
|
166cfs |
South Fork Iowa River Ne Of New Providence
|
79cfs |
Shell Rock River At Shell Rock
|
484cfs |
Beaver Creek At New Hartford
|
123cfs |
Cedar River At Charles City
|
450cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Beeds Lake Dam